Posted by Snoozy on May 14, 2003, at 15:44:59
In reply to New and Nervous, posted by Tree on May 14, 2003, at 10:47:57
Hi Tree -
Welcome. Is the doctor who prescribed Effexor for you a psychiatrist? Also, it sounds like you've been struggling with insomnia for a while?
I don't know anything about 5htp, but I have been on Effexor and am currently on Wellbutrin (400mg). It's been a while since I was on Effexor, but both of them can cause insomnia. If you decide to take Wellbutrin, it would probably be better not to start at 300. The SR tablets come in 100 and 150 mg strengths, so you could start with 100 or 150. In addition to the insomnia, it can cause some irritation in the beginning (both went away for me).
Have you considered joining a support group for breast cancer? Some of the depression and anxiety you're experiencing may be a natural response to cancer and the treatments. (I'm not saying it doesn't need to be treated though.)
I'd be happy to try and answer any questions about my Wellbutrin experience. Good luck to you and I hope you find something that works.
> Hi, I am new here. I am experiencing depression and some anxiety following treatment (mastectomy) for breast cancer. My doctor prescribed Effexor, with Klonopin for sleep. I filled the prescription, then read the postings here about the horrible withdrawal, and became afraid to take it. I asked her for Wellbutrin instead and she thought it would be too strong, and would exacerbate my insomnia. I pushed and she gave it to me. I refuse to take anything that will make me gain weight, as that would defeat the purpose. (She thought Effexor would not make me gain). Anyway, I was all geared up to start the Wellbutrin today, and then my Chiropractor, who I saw yesterday, encouraged me to try 5htp first. She said it would only take about 5 days to work. This is my second day, and I don't feel anything yet. I took a Klonopin (sp?) last night, but only made it till 4:30am. I am looking for feedback on 5htp and the others. Also, do I jump right in with 300mg of Wellbutrin, if I decide to go that way, or do I build up. I am nervous about taking anything, but I need to do something soon.
poster:Snoozy
thread:226557
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030514/msgs/226608.html